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Monday, September 14, 2015

Things to Do on Beaver Island: Little Sand Bay

Beaver Island is a downright mystery to most people. They ask where I live and when I reply the responses range from…

"Are there beavers there?" to "Never heard of it." to "Why?!?!"

I thought that if I started doing a Things to Do on Beaver Island segment of my blog people might be a little less confused…or not, whatever works. You'll probably notice that most of these things involve just (insert outdoor activity here) around in nature. Honestly, that's just the majority of what there is to do here. There are a few community events sprinkled throughout the year, but nothing super crazy. For all of you outdoor enthusiasts though, it's a paradise!

Little Sand Bay Preserve is one of my favorite hikes on the island. Right past the airport there is a two-track trail that you can drive your car down. A sign marks it for what it is. You drive a little ways back into the fields, but don't worry your car won't get stuck. Another old, painted sign shows where to park. I've never seen any other people out here hiking, so I don't imagine you'll be fighting for parking ever. Next to the parking is an awesome abandoned house. The house is from the original Mormon settlers on the island.

The trail is mostly a dirt path in the beginning and you'll traverse through some tall dune grass and abundant apple trees (feel free to snack). The trail then heads into a winding, swamp-like section of the island. Boardwalks dot the trail to help with the high water in some spots. It is very mossy with lots of fallen trees, which makes it seem like the Pacific Northwest or SE Alaska for a stretch. Finally, the trees part and you are out on a huge, sandy beach with endless wildflowers. It's pretty stunning to walk out of this dark and wooded trail only to be blinded by Lake Michigan.

This trail comes highly recommended by me, especially if you are wanting a look into the islands many ecosystems. It is also a popular birding trail and beavers are often seen building in the swamps, which is very cool!

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